Zebre 27-3 Worcester: Zebre start fast to snatch victory

Zebre open up Pool 4 with comfortable victory against Worcester Warriors on Saturday

The hosts touched down within the opening 60 seconds before racing into a 21-3 lead at half-time

Two penalties from Carlo Canna after the restart secured the win for Zebre

Worcester scored a late consolation try through Dean Hammond

Zebre bounced back from defeat against Gloucester last weekend to record a comprehensive win against Pool 4 rivals Worcester Warriors.

When predictions were made, Worcester and Zebre, were teams expected to reside towards the bottom of their respective divisions with this game doing nothing to show either are capable of an unexpected flourish this season.

Zebre though were the far better side, taking the lead within the first 60 seconds when Marcello Violi dived over for the opening try. Fly-half Carlo Canna added the extras before kicking a penalty to give the Italian hosts an early 10-point lead.

Things then went from bad to worse for the visitors as Tommaso Boni finished off a quick-flowing move from the Italians to neatly finish out wide. Canna couldn’t convert but added a drop-goal soon after to give Zebre a comfortable lead, 18-0.

Worcester then got on the scoreboard through Ryan Lamb from the tee but the visitors received another major setback soon after as Sam Betty, on his 100th appearance for the club, was sent to the sin-bin.

Canna would then go on to edge the hosts further clear before the break with another penalty goal, 21-3.

Zebre’s number 10 added another two penalties to secure the win for the hosts after the break while Worcester were never able to get going.

The Warriors were able though to find a consolation score through Dean Hammond but it was too little, too late.

Ruck brings you everything from the world of rugby: the latest rugby news, the freshest World Cup updates and the best in-depth content. From team guides to expert analysis, industry updates to stats and scores, Ruck has you covered.
Made for rugby fans, by rugby fans, we’re the leading Rugby Union content network. Be the first to read breaking news about the 8th Rugby World Cup, get fixtures, reports, and expert comment, and keep up to date with the Six Nations, Championship, Rugby Union, and more.
Ruck: all the news, views, and moves in rugby. You won’t find it anywhere else.